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PODCAST

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights

Movies, reviewed and rated. If you love movies you’ll love Movies First with well-known and respected reviewer Alex First and his sidekicks Chris & Jessica. Answering the big question...should I see this movie?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/movies-first-film-reviews-insights--2648009/support.

tv & film film reviews

All Episodes

4:53

Fractured Bonds: The Twisted Family Dynamics in...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/06/10

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dive into the chilling world of *Bring Her Back*, the latest horror feature from the Philippou brothers, Danny and Michael, who captivated audiences with their debut film, *Talk to Me*. Set in their native South Australia, this gripping tale follows the harrowing journey of two siblings, Piper, a nearly blind girl, and her older stepbrother Andy, as they navigate the aftermath of their father's tragic death and the looming threat of separation by social

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4:55

Love in the Shadows: Unraveling the Tensions of...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/06/04

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dissect the gripping film *Beating Hearts*, a bold reimagining of the classic romantic tragedy that intertwines the themes of love, crime, and class struggle. Set against the backdrop of Northern France from the 1970s to the 1990s, this cinematic journey follows the tumultuous relationship between Jackie, a middle-class girl haunted by her past, and Clotaire, a working-class youth drawn into a world of crime. Their paths cross at school, igniting a passionate

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5:19

Stitching Together Belonging: The Heartfelt Layers of...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/06/01

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the thought-provoking remake of Disney's beloved classic, *Lilo and Stitch*, exploring its deeper themes of grief and the significance of chosen families in contemporary society. Directed by Dean Fleischer Campbell, known for his Oscar-nominated work on *Marcel the Shell with Shoes On*, this adaptation draws fascinating parallels between its characters' journeys and the universal quest for belonging in a world that often feels unwelcoming.The standout

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5:11

Surfing the Edge of Redemption: Analyzing 'The Surfer'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/30

In this episode of *Movies First*, we explore the intense and thought-provoking Australian psychological thriller, *The Surfer*, featuring a captivating performance by Nicolas Cage as a man seeking to reclaim his past by purchasing his childhood clifftop home. As he grapples with financial struggles and an estranged relationship with his teenage son, portrayed by Finn Little, the narrative delves into the complexities of masculinity and belonging against the backdrop of a hostile local surf

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4:53

Navigating Love and Identity: Unpacking 'The Wedding...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/29

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dive into the transformative narrative of *The Wedding Banquet*, a remake that brilliantly reinterprets Ang Lee's 1993 classic. This film intricately weaves themes of marriage, family, and cultural identity, presenting a fresh perspective on modern relationships amid the complexities of IVF struggles and immigration challenges. The story centers around Jingle and Lee, portrayed by Kelly Marie Tran and Lily Gladstone, who face the emotional turmoil of fertility

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4:42

The Highs and Lows of Action: Reviewing 'Mission...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/23

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dissect the latest installment of the iconic *Mission Impossible* franchise, *The Final Reckoning*, which has grossed over $4 billion across eight films. Despite the thrilling stunts and breathtaking visuals—like Tom Chris soaring in biplanes over South Africa and diving into the depths of the Bering Sea—the film struggles under the weight of a bloated storyline that leaves audiences wanting more.We explore how the film attempts to blend the intimate espionage

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4:21

The Hidden Lives of Kitchen Staff: Exploring 'La cocina'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/21

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the gripping world of *La cocina*, a film that exposes the hidden realities behind the kitchen doors of our favorite restaurants. The narrative unfolds in a high-pressure environment where missing money, illegal workers, and romantic entanglements create a volatile atmosphere that will make you reconsider your next dining experience. Drawing from his own past as a dishwasher in London, the director crafts a story that is both personal and universal,

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5:18

Finding Light in Darkness: Exploring 'The Penguin...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/20

In this episode of *Movies First*, we explore the heartwarming yet poignant film *The Penguin Lessons*, set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1976 Buenos Aires, where a military coup looms ominously. The narrative follows Tom Michelle, played by the charming Steve Coogan, as he navigates his role as a new English teacher at the prestigious St. George's College. The strict headmaster, Timothy Buckle, portrayed by Jonathan Price, enforces rigid rules that challenge Michelle’s unconventional approach

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5:02

From Despair to Discovery: The Journey of 'The Salt...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/19

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the inspiring true story depicted in *The Salt Path*, which follows the extraordinary journey of Rainer and Mothwin as they navigate the depths of despair and emerge with newfound resilience. After losing their home, facing a terminal diagnosis, and suffering financial ruin all within a week, this couple's tale challenges our perceptions of strength and hope.The episode paints a vivid picture of their life on a farm in Wales, a sanctuary they built

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5:17

Mental Health and Superheroes: A Deep Dive into...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/16

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dive into Marvel's groundbreaking film *Thunderbolts*, which boldly places mental health at the forefront of its superhero narrative. As we explore the character of Yelena, played by Florence Pugh, we discuss her profound struggles with purposelessness and how this reflects a larger shift in the portrayal of psychological issues in mainstream entertainment. The film introduces Bob, a seemingly ordinary individual whose journey from despair to empowerment serves

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4:08

The Rise and Fall of a Showman: Exploring 'Monsieur...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/14

In this episode of *Movies First*, Alex delves into the captivating biopic *Monsieur Asnavour*, which chronicles the life of the legendary French-Armenian singer-songwriter Charles Aznavour. With a rich musical backdrop featuring both his iconic hits and lesser-known tracks, the film offers an intimate glimpse into Aznavour's journey from a troubled childhood to international stardom. We explore his early years, marked by resilience and creativity, as his family sheltered those persecuted during

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5:00

The Cost of Truth: Unpacking Peter Greste's 400 Days...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/08

In this episode of *Movies First*, we explore the gripping thriller *The Correspondent*, which chronicles the harrowing experience of journalist Peter Greste during his 400-day imprisonment in Egypt. What begins as a routine Christmas assignment for Al Jazeera quickly spirals into a nightmare as Greste faces trumped-up charges that threaten to erase his career and freedom. We discuss the chilling implications of the Egyptian authorities' actions, which effectively criminalize journalism itself, and

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5:41

Unraveling 'Misericordia': Secrets and Tensions in a...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/07

In this episode of *Movies First*, Alex delves into the hauntingly atmospheric French film *Misericordia*, a psychological drama that unfolds in a quaint village rocked by the death of its beloved baker, Jean Pierre Rigal. This pivotal event sets off a series of revelations that peel back the layers of relationships and tensions within this close-knit community, where residents share an unusual habit of staying awake through the night.The narrative centers around Jeremy Pastor, portrayed with

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4:29

Unpacking 'Hysteria': Provocation and Power in Film

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/02

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dive into the provocative German film *Hysteria*, a gripping exploration of historical trauma and cultural identity. Directed by Mehmet Akif Büyükatalay, this film boldly confronts the tragic 1993 arson attacks that claimed five Turkish lives, transforming it into a narrative that questions the ownership of storytelling itself. We discuss the innovative approach of Turkish German filmmaker Yigit, who uses real refugees as extras in a recreation that ignites

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5:16

The Balancing Act: Humor and Thriller in 'The...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/27

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the intricate layers of *The Accountant 2*, a thrilling sequel that expertly combines high-stakes action with moments of unexpected humor. Ben Affleck returns as Christian Wolf, a neurodivergent antihero whose mathematical genius is matched only by his combat skills. We explore the complexities of his character, highlighting his emotional reserve and the challenges he faces in personal relationships, particularly with his estranged brother, Braxton,

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4:52

Calculated Chaos: Neurodivergence in 'The Accountant 2'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/27

In this episode of *Movies First*, we take a deep dive into the action-packed film *The Accountant 2*, featuring Ben Affleck as Christian Wolf, a neurodivergent character who redefines the role of an action hero. The discussion focuses on how the film flips traditional narratives, showcasing Christian's mathematical prowess as a superpower in both accounting and combat. The contrasting dynamics between Christian and his brother Braxton, played by Jon Bernthal, highlight the tension between logic

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5:04

Art as Resistance in 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/25

In this episode, we explore the powerful narrative of the Oscar-nominated film, "The Seed of the Sacred Fig," directed by Mohammad Rasulov. This gripping story reveals how art can become a form of resistance against oppressive regimes, as Rasulov filmed it in secret while living in exile. We discuss the film's metaphor of the sacred fig tree, the impact of personal freedoms being suffocated, and the chilling family dynamics that reflect broader political tensions. Join us as we delve into the

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5:19

Shadows of Deception: The Psychological Tension in...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/22

In this thrilling episode of *Movies First*, Alex dives into the psychological rollercoaster that is *Drop*, a film that transforms an elegant evening into a nightmare of manipulation and fear. At the heart of the story is Violet, a widowed psychologist grappling with the aftermath of domestic violence, who finally agrees to meet Henry, a photographer, at a chic Chicago restaurant. But what begins as a hopeful date quickly spirals into terror when Violet starts receiving ominous text messages—known

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5:04

Melodies of Darkness: Unveiling the Horror in 'Sinners'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/20

In this captivating episode of *Movies First*, the team delves into the genre-defying film *Sinners*, a masterful blend of period drama, blues music, and Southern Gothic horror. Set in 1932 Mississippi, the narrative follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack, portrayed by the talented Michael B. Jordan, as they return home after tumultuous experiences working for Al Capone and serving in World War I. Their arrival, accompanied by bootlegged liquor and a desire to open a juke joint, sets the stage for a

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54:56

Capturing Truth: The Art of Storytelling in Warfare...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/20

In this gripping episode of First on Film & Entertainment, host Alex First is joined by critics Sandy Kaye, Peter Chris, and Greg King as they dive into two thought-provoking films: *Warfare* and *Drop*. The discussion begins with *Warfare*, a harrowing portrayal of a Navy SEAL mission gone awry in Iraq. The panel praises Alex Garland's direction, highlighting the film's intense realism and emotional depth, which keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Sandy shares her surprise at how much she

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